ThuleInsta-Gater Pro Truck Bed Bike Rack

I've been researching a solution to transport bikes in my full size truck that wouldn't have the bikes hanging over the tailgate and wouldn't involve permanently obstructing my bed and this one was a clear winner as it checks all the boxes. Easy to set up and tear down, holds the bikes well. It's a bit pricy, but I recommend it if you can afford one (or a few)!

Why did you pick this product vs others?:Was looking for a rack that holds the bike in the truck bed instead of hanging from the trailer hitch. This product did not disappoint, I ordered another one. It was easy to build, very sturdy. Holds the bike well in the bed, only moved a little when driving down some dirt roads. Overall the rack holds the bike in place but if you want to make sure no one steals it you’ll still need another bike lock.

Unfortunately you still need to secure the other end of the bike. Modern mountain bikes do not fit in the bed of a truck without turning the front wheel 90°. The only way to use this rack is on the rear wheel and it absolutely does not hold a bike securely enough by itself. So you are left trying to figure out a solution to secure the front end. As luck would have it, my truck doesn’t have tie-off points right where they need to be so Im no closer to a solution than I was before I bought it. I don’t mind paying a premium for something that works, but this thing was not thought through very well.

This rack has been very convenient for transporting my road bike in the truck bed. I really like being able to keep the front wheel on while keeping the bike very secure for travel. The lock mechanism is pointless as you could easily cut the rubber feet and take the bike and rack in a few seconds, so security could be improved. I wish they had a multiple bike version of this as we often cary 2 or 3 bikes. The price was a bit higher then I would like but there isn't another rack like this. It works just as well for my mountain bike as well so it's versatility is great.

Price is a lot but now that I have it I think it is worth it. Has a built in lock with key and a medium frame 29er will fit with this in a 5.5ft truck bed. Install was super easy. Use the blank key to install the lock mechanism.

Installs in seconds, uninstalls in seconds, only touches the bikes tire. Very cool design that WORKS! Now I don’t have to leave hitch mounted carriers hanging off my truck…

Pretty easy to assemble. Uses ski boot type bindings to connect frame with tailgate anchor straps. Solid overall, but I suspect the buckles will be the likeliest failure point / require the closest attention.The insta-gater has a cable and SKS lock system to lock the bike to the unit. However, a thief could easily remove the insta-gater itself by simply removing the anchor straps, and hauling bike and rack to a nearby vehicle.Pro: ease of use; holds bike securely for travelCon: securing bike properly against theft will require a separate locking system

The rack is relatively easy to get set up when you want to load your bike up, and does a good job of holding it in place. It's also small enough to throw into your cab during rides if you're worried about someone stealing it. Fiddling with the ratcheting straps is a little annoying, but other than that I have zero complaints.